Keeping devices secure, compliant and up to date across a distributed workforce has become a key challenge for many businesses. With more teams working remotely and the increasing need for flexibility, traditional IT management methods are no longer sufficient. This is where Microsoft Intune and Windows AutoPilot step in—offering modern, cloud-based solutions for centralised device management.
As a seasoned MSP in London, Proxar IT Consulting helps organisations implement and optimise these tools, enabling more efficient, secure and consistent device setups. But what exactly do Intune and AutoPilot offer—and why should today’s businesses consider them?
What is Microsoft Intune?
Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based service for managing mobile devices and applications across an organisation. It enables IT administrators to configure security policies, control app deployment, and monitor device compliance from a single web-based interface.
Unlike legacy solutions that rely heavily on local infrastructure, Intune is designed for today’s hybrid and remote working environments. It supports multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS and Android—making it ideal for businesses with a diverse device landscape.
Why Centralised Management Matters
Centralising device management through a platform like Intune provides clear, practical benefits:
- Consistency: All users receive the same settings, applications, and security measures.
- Efficiency: Admin tasks can be automated and rolled out remotely.
- Security: Devices can be configured to meet strict compliance requirements.
- Flexibility: Policies can be tailored by department, role, or device type.
In today’s fast-paced workplace, being able to provision and manage devices without needing physical access is not just convenient—it’s essential.
Configuration Policies: Defining the Rules
One of the most valuable features of Intune is the ability to create and enforce configuration policies across your organisation. These rules determine how devices behave, what users can access, and how company data is protected.
For example, configuration profiles can:
- Require full disk encryption (BitLocker on Windows)
- Automatically connect to company Wi-Fi or VPN
- Restrict access to sensitive apps or data based on compliance status
- Block unapproved apps or external storage devices
These policies can be applied at scale, helping businesses maintain a secure environment while reducing the time spent on manual setups.
Streamlined Application Deployment
Intune also enables seamless app deployment, making it easy for businesses to install and manage software across all devices. Whether you need to push out Microsoft 365 apps, internal tools, or third-party software, it can all be done centrally—with minimal disruption to end users.
You can:
- Automatically install required applications for new users
- Make optional apps available through a self-service company portal
- Roll out updates remotely
- Remove apps when staff leave or roles change
For growing organisations or those with high staff turnover, this automation ensures continuity and saves countless hours of manual work.
Licensing: No Extra Cost for Many Businesses
One of the most compelling aspects of Microsoft Intune is that it’s already included in many Microsoft 365 licences—such as Business Premium and Enterprise E3/E5. That means for many organisations already using Office 365, Intune can be activated and used at no extra cost.
This built-in value often goes unnoticed, but for companies looking to strengthen their IT security and efficiency without adding new expenses, it’s a smart and cost-effective option.
Introducing Windows AutoPilot: Consistent Builds, Minimal Effort
Windows AutoPilot is another tool that works in tandem with Intune. It simplifies the provisioning of new devices by enabling fully automated, cloud-based setup from the moment the device is switched on.
With AutoPilot:
- Devices are registered to your organisation before delivery.
- When an employee turns it on and connects to Wi-Fi, the setup process begins automatically.
- The device joins your domain, applies Intune policies, installs required apps, and is ready for work—without IT having to physically touch it.
This results in a consistent build every time, ensuring new staff receive the same secure and standardised experience whether they’re in the office, at home, or abroad.
Why Every Modern MSP Should Encourage This Approach
As a Managed Service Provider, recommending modern, cloud-native tools like Intune and AutoPilot isn’t just about keeping up with trends—it’s about delivering real, measurable benefits to clients.
Some of the advantages include:
- Reduced IT workload: Less hands-on provisioning and fewer support tickets.
- Stronger security: Central enforcement of policies reduces human error.
- Faster onboarding: New starters can begin work within minutes.
- Lower long-term costs: Automated processes replace time-consuming manual tasks